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Generic Latisse: How to Use Careprost for Longer Eyelashes
Careprost and generic Latisse explained: how bimatoprost 0.03% grows eyelashes, how to apply it to the lid margin, the results timeline and side effects.
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Generic Latisse is bimatoprost 0.03% solution used to grow longer, thicker and darker eyelashes, sold at a lower price than the branded product. Careprost is one of the best-known versions. It contains the same active ingredient at the same strength and is applied to the skin of the upper eyelid, along the base of the lashes, with a sterile applicator. This guide explains how generic Latisse works, how to apply it step by step, what results to expect, the side effects to know about, and how to order it safely with a prescription.
Bimatoprost has two quite different uses. As an eyelash treatment it is brushed onto the lid margin. As a glaucoma medicine it is dropped into the eye to lower eye pressure. This guide is about eyelash use, and we keep the two uses clearly separate throughout.
Key takeaways
- Generic Latisse contains bimatoprost 0.03%, the same active ingredient and strength as the branded product.
- For eyelash growth it is applied once a day to the upper eyelid margin with a sterile applicator, not dropped into the eye.
- Lashes usually start to change after about 4 weeks, with the full effect at around 3 to 4 months.
- The effect is not permanent: lashes gradually return to how they were once you stop.
- Side effects include red or itchy eyes, darkening of the eyelid skin and, rarely, a permanent change in iris colour.
- A valid prescription is required for every order of a prescription medicine.
What is generic Latisse?
Latisse is the original brand of bimatoprost 0.03% for eyelash growth. It is used to treat hypotrichosis of the eyelashes, which means lashes that are too short, too sparse or too thin. Generic versions contain the same molecule at the same strength, usually with a different maker, bottle and price.
Bimatoprost is a prostaglandin analogue. When it is applied to the base of the lashes, it is thought to extend the growth phase of the lash hair cycle and increase the number of hairs in that phase. The result, for many people, is lashes that are longer, fuller and darker than before.
Two bimatoprost 0.03% products are available in our eye care range:
- Careprost 0.03% bimatoprost with brush, supplied with applicator brushes for eyelash use.
- Coolprost bimatoprost 0.03%, which contains the same active ingredient with benzalkonium chloride as a preservative. Check whether applicators are included before ordering.
Careprost vs Latisse vs glaucoma drops
Because bimatoprost is used both on the lids and in the eye, the products can be confusing. The table below sets out the main differences.
| Product | Active ingredient | Main use | How it is used |
|---|---|---|---|
| Latisse (brand) | Bimatoprost 0.03% | Eyelash growth | Upper lid margin with a sterile applicator |
| Careprost (generic Latisse) | Bimatoprost 0.03% | Eyelash growth | Upper lid margin with the supplied brush |
| Coolprost | Bimatoprost 0.03% | Eyelash growth, as prescribed | Upper lid margin with a sterile applicator |
| Lumigan (brand glaucoma drop) | Bimatoprost | Raised eye pressure, glaucoma | Dropped into the eye as prescribed |
| Latoprost | Latanoprost 0.005% | Raised eye pressure, glaucoma | Dropped into the eye as prescribed |
Latoprost latanoprost eye drops are a different glaucoma medicine. They are not a generic Latisse product and should only be used as your eye doctor directs for eye pressure.
How to apply Careprost eye drops for eyelashes
Although Careprost is often called “Careprost eye drops”, for eyelash growth it is not dropped into the eye. Follow the steps below, along with the patient leaflet that comes with your medicine.
- Start clean. Wash your face and remove all make-up. Take out contact lenses.
- Wash your hands. This reduces the risk of infection.
- Use a fresh applicator. Place one drop of solution on a new sterile brush or applicator, close to the tip.
- Apply to the upper lid only. Draw the applicator carefully along the skin of the upper eyelid margin, at the base of the lashes, from the inner corner to the outer corner. The area should feel lightly moist, not wet.
- Blot any excess. Use a clean tissue to remove solution beyond the lid margin, to avoid unwanted hair growth on nearby skin.
- Use a new applicator for the other eye. Throw away each applicator after one use to avoid spreading germs between eyes.
- Do not apply to the lower lid. The solution spreads naturally to the lower lashes when you blink.
- Wait before contact lenses. Leave at least 15 minutes before putting lenses back in.
Apply once a day, usually in the evening. Using more often, or more solution, does not improve results and may increase side effects. If you miss a dose, simply carry on the next evening.
How long does generic Latisse take to work?
- Weeks 1 to 4: usually no visible change.
- Around 4 to 8 weeks: many people start to notice longer lashes.
- Around 12 to 16 weeks: the full effect on length, thickness and darkness is usually seen.
- After stopping: lashes gradually return to their previous appearance over several weeks to months, as the hair cycle resets.
Results vary between people, and not everyone responds in the same way. To keep the effect, ongoing use is needed; your prescriber may suggest a lower frequency once you are happy with the result.
Side effects of bimatoprost for eyelashes
Most people use bimatoprost on the lid margin without serious problems, but you should know what to look out for.
Common side effects
- Red eyes and itching of the eyes or eyelids.
- Darkening of the eyelid skin where the solution is applied. This often fades after stopping, but may take time.
- Dry or irritated eyes, especially early on.
Less common but important
- Iris colour change. Bimatoprost can increase brown pigment in the coloured part of the eye. This change may be permanent. It has mainly been seen with in-eye glaucoma use, but it is possible if solution gets into the eye.
- Hair growth on skin. Hair can grow where the solution repeatedly touches skin outside the lash line, which is why blotting the excess matters.
- Eye inflammation or swelling. Stop and speak to a doctor if your eye becomes painful, swollen, very red, or your vision changes.
If solution accidentally gets into your eye, it is not expected to cause harm in a single instance, but avoid it where possible. Seek medical advice for any symptoms that worry you.
When to talk to a doctor first
Speak to a doctor or eye specialist before using generic Latisse if any of the following apply:
- Glaucoma or raised eye pressure. If you already use a pressure-lowering eye drop, especially another prostaglandin drop such as bimatoprost or latanoprost, adding eyelash treatment may reduce how well your glaucoma medicine works. Your eye doctor needs to know.
- Eye surgery or eye conditions. Previous eye surgery, inflammation inside the eye or swelling at the back of the eye need specialist advice first.
- Contact lenses. The preservative in many bimatoprost solutions can be absorbed by soft lenses, so remove them before applying and wait at least 15 minutes.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor before use.
- Infection. Do not apply to an eye or eyelid that is infected or inflamed.
How to buy generic Latisse online safely
If you buy medicine online, use the same care you would at your local pharmacy. To buy generic Latisse online safely, or to buy Careprost online:
- Get a prescription. Bimatoprost is a prescription medicine. A valid prescription is required for every order of a prescription medicine.
- Check the strength. Make sure the product is bimatoprost 0.03% and that it matches your prescription.
- Check the pack. Confirm the bottle size and whether sterile applicators are included. If not, make sure you have single-use applicators before you start.
- Arrange delivery. Orders are shipped worldwide by EMS or registered mail in discreet packaging, with delivery to the US, UK, Europe and Canada.
- Tell your doctor. Let your doctor or eye specialist know you are using bimatoprost on your lashes, particularly if you are treated for glaucoma.
At RxPillTab, our how to order page explains the steps, including how to upload your prescription. For more general advice on choosing a supplier when you buy medicines online, read our guide to buying generic medicines online.
Frequently asked questions
Is Careprost the same as generic Latisse?
Careprost contains bimatoprost 0.03%, the same active ingredient and strength as Latisse, so it is widely known as generic Latisse. The maker, bottle and price differ.
Can I put Careprost directly in my eye to grow lashes?
No. For eyelash growth, bimatoprost is applied to the upper eyelid margin with a sterile applicator. Dropping it into the eye is the glaucoma use and should only be done when an eye doctor prescribes it for eye pressure.
How long until I see results from generic Latisse?
Many people notice a change after about 4 to 8 weeks, with the full effect at around 12 to 16 weeks of daily use.
Will my lashes stay long if I stop?
No. Lashes gradually return to their previous length and thickness over several weeks to months after stopping.
Can bimatoprost change my eye colour?
It can, rarely. Increased brown pigment in the iris may be permanent. It is mainly linked to in-eye use, but it is a reason to keep the solution on the lid margin and blot any excess.
Do I need a prescription to buy Careprost online?
Yes. Bimatoprost is a prescription medicine, and a valid prescription is required for every order of a prescription medicine.
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not replace professional advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting any medicine. Read our full medical disclaimer.
Medicines mentioned in this guide
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About this guide
Written by the rxptteam8. We base our guides on official sources such as the NHS, the US FDA, the EMA and MedlinePlus, and we update them when guidance changes. Last updated .